Photocatalytic activity of AuFe/TiO2 composites

Student: Savidra Lucatero
Department: Chemical Engineering
Advisor: Elizabeth Podiaha-Murphy

Abstract

My research project focuses on characterizing the photocatalytic performance of FeAu/TiO2 composites for the degradation of chlorinated contaminants and hydrogen generation. This system is designed to prevent catalyst aging or deactivation effects observed in Au/TiO2 through cathodic protection by galvanic contact to a less noble metal, Fe. An improved photoactivity of this novel catalyst is expected under UV irradiation by noble metal incorporation and enhanced surface area available by its nanoporous structure. In addition, this enhanced activity is expected to last longer than Au/TiO2 counterparts by means of Fe incorporation. The catalytic performance of the fabricated composite is being investigated under monochromatic UV light and characterized by means of cyclic voltammetry, a step in the illumination and impedance modulated photocurrent spectroscopy.